Week 32 - August 4-10, 2024: Calming the Storm

This week’s daily readings:

August 4-10, 2024

This week’s devotional:

Calming the Storm
by Sue Hersey

Scripture:

Even though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil, for you are with me. 

— Psalm 23:4a (ESV)

Reflection:

The 23rd Psalm speaks about a shepherd and his sheep. I don’t know a lot about sheep; I’ve never had any. But I have had two different beagles in my life. They didn’t really look alike – one had longer ears than the other, and their coloring and markings were different – but they shared many attributes I believe are common for their breed. Beagles are hound dogs, and so they both loved to howl and would forget whatever they were doing just to follow an interesting scent. Both dogs were very affectionate but would turn vicious over a scrap of food! But their worst trait, by far, was a terrible fear of thunderstorms and fireworks, which made summertime a nightmare from start to finish. 

Because their hearing was so good, they always knew in advance when a storm was coming. Suddenly, a dog so eager to take a walk was tucking his tail between his legs and running for shelter. I wouldn’t always realize what was happening until I saw the lightning or heard the thunder, myself. At night, the situation seemed even more dramatic as lightning lit up the house and the sound seemed that much louder. The poor dogs would tremble with fear! 

Fireworks had the same effect. It didn’t matter whether it was a nearby professional display or just a neighbor lighting a few firecrackers to celebrate the 4th. To a beagle, it was the sound of battle, and he was ready to wave the white flag. If I were in my bedroom with the door closed, he would cry and scratch at it until I let him in. I couldn’t deny him whatever comfort I could offer: a lap to hide his face in, a kind word, and a loving pat. Soon the noise would be over and the dog would forget there was ever a problem, but he always knew he could find comfort in my presence.

In our own lives, with our own fears – large or small – God is there to play the part of comforter for us. Whatever darkness we face, our Heavenly Father lets his presence be known and steps in to conquer the evils, soothe us with love, and strengthen us with hope. Life is scary at times. We can’t always see what’s ahead, but we can be assured that our Shepherd watches over us and that’s all we need!

Prayer:

Almighty God, what a blessing to have you watching over me! I may not know what lies ahead, but you do. I don’t have the power to overcome evil, but you do. When I’m filled with fear, I don’t even like myself, but you show me love and give me comfort like no one else can. Through all the dark and stormy parts of life, let me always remember I can turn to you! I praise you and give you glory in Jesus’ name. Amen